How Novant Health is Building a Strong Cybersecurity Team for Healthcare

Cybersecurity in Healthcare: A Crucial Defense System

As healthcare systems increasingly rely on digital technologies, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Novant Health, a nonprofit health system located in North Carolina, has embraced this challenge by prioritizing the development of a robust cybersecurity team designed to protect both patients and operations. With a workforce of over 100 cybersecurity experts, Novant Health has created an environment where collaboration and shared accountability thrive, a necessity in countering evolving cyber threats.

Building a Supportive Culture

Under the leadership of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Sanjeev Sah, Novant Health’s cybersecurity department has developed a culture that prioritizes professional growth. "People are the strongest element of security," Sah emphasizes, highlighting how investment in human capital leads to stronger overall defenses. This people-centric approach fosters an inclusive environment where team members feel valued, contributing to heightened morale and lower turnover.

The Value of Diverse Expertise

Members of the cybersecurity team at Novant Health come from various fields including clinical care, IT, and compliance. This diversity enables better risk assessment in the context of healthcare operations, allowing for improved collaboration across departments. For instance, when clinicians, administrators, and vendors understand the security landscape, the adoption of policies and technologies becomes more seamless, effectively integrating security with organizational goals.

Empowering Team Members

A key element of Novant Health’s strategy is fostering psychological safety, which empowers team members to share ideas openly. Senior Director Fatou Toure reflects this sentiment, noting that the trust developed among team members enhances support and productivity. When people feel they have a voice, it leads not only to innovative solutions but also a stronger defense against potential cyber threats.

Future Insights for Cybersecurity in Healthcare

The landscape of cybersecurity in healthcare will continue to evolve as technology advances. Novant Health’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a collaborative culture could serve as a model for other healthcare organizations seeking to strengthen their defenses. As threats grow in complexity, a well-trained and motivated workforce may prove to be the most effective barrier against cyber-attacks.